in-VIGOR-ate®
Reducing the Impact of Stress during Transport of Game Birds
Reducing the Impact of Stress during Transport of Game Birds
Proper management during game bird transport is critical in delivering healthy, vigorous birds. Precautions must be taken during crating and shipping birds to minimize stress. Because birds are sensitive and nervous animals, relocation can be a tricky business.
Loud noises, aggressive handling, feed and water intake disruptions, and change of environment all contribute to stress during the transportation process. Often during transport the birds experience a degree of heat stress. During unloading at the destination, minimizing noise levels and a calm demeanor are important.
The transportation process results in physiological changes due to the stress experienced by the birds. They will be dehydrated and body energy reserves will be depleted. Therefore, a stress management program using nutritional supplements to restore body reserves will help revitalize their health and vigor.
Stress and the disruption of feed and water intake have a negative impact on gut health. Whenever the intestine is without feed for at least 6 hours, the intestinal mucosa starts to break down resulting in gut barrier destruction. Additionally, there is a shift in gut microflora with a reduction in the beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria) with an increase in E. coli, Salmonella and Clostridia. The imbalance can lead to mild enteritis.
Key nutrients identified as being important in preparing birds before shipment as well as after relocation include electrolytes, vitamins and probiotics. Administer a water supplement with these nutrients for 2 to 3 days prior to transport to help build reserves.
Upon arrival at the receiving pen, it is critical to provide readily available feed and water. Feed should be nutritious and palatable so that birds can restore energy and amino acid needs quickly. If possible, provide a bag of the feed on which the birds were raised since the familiarity will encourage quicker feed consumption. It can be also useful to offer a small amount of specialty “starter” feed that has highly digestible sources of protein and energy to more quickly replenish depleted body stores.
in-VIGOR-ate®, which is acidified and contains electrolytes, vitamins and probiotics, should be provided for 3 days after delivery. The electrolytes (particularly if with a high ratio of potassium:sodium) will promptly rehydrate the birds. Vitamins A, D, C & E will provide support to the immune system. And probiotics will help re-establish the desired gut microflora balance to reduce incidence of enteritis.
The objective is to provide vigorous healthy birds for the hunt. Stress management programs during both transport and receiving birds helps assure successful delivery.